Being grateful, mindful and kind as I embark on 30 days of yoga:
I LOVE LOVE LOVE yoga.
This is my third post about one of my most treasured rituals, and why not, it deserves it: yoga is an integral part of my life, my wellbeing and my healing journey.
I find stretching my body with a yoga session wonderfully delicious, and even more so with all the bed rest I currently have to take. I also find it soothing and peaceful for my mind and soul, and it’s another opportunity to practice mindfulness.
Not being able to practice as much as I used to has been one of the frustrating things about having CFS. Due to the nature of the condition, my practice is quite sporadic as I sometimes simply don’t have the energy, or my neck is feeling too painful from when I sustained a severe whiplash injury a couple of years ago.
Over the last few months, I’ve been able to get back on the mat which has lifted my spirits no end. And recently, I’ve even managed to go to a couple of classes and would love to build up slowly to attending regularly. But all in good time.
In a good week, I’m managing to enjoy two very gentle sessions at home, alternating between my two favourite short practices on DVD. But lately I’ve been feeling a little bored with my practice as I know them off by heart.
I think it’s time to shake things up a little.
And I’m feeling optimistic that my body can handle a teeny bit more 😊.
And I’m loving the gorgeously inspiring Rachel Brathen’s mantra: “Yoga Every Damned Day”.
(And yes, I want the tee-shirt!)
Sooooo, I’ve decided to try and make November ’30 Days of Yoga’.
After some googling, I’ve found a lovely online teacher called Erin Motz who offers a free 30 day yoga challenge. It’s “30 days of yoga in 10-20 minute long online video sessions which we send you directly to your email inbox one day at a time.” Which sounds perfect for my limited energy levels.
I like that there’s a different focus for each day’s session; day 2 is for chest and shoulders, day 3 is for posture, day 4 is for abs, and so on.
I’ve signed up, I’ve pimped up my yoga mat, and I’m ready to go.
I am giving myself permission to skip a day or two if I need to – if my CFS symptoms are too intense, or if my neck is too sore. But I’m really hoping I can try and attempt each day’s session.
And if not, I will see if I can manage a sun salutation or even one little downward dog! And if not, I will at least be able to meditate.
No pressure, no worries, all is well.
So with this in mind, my happy for today is being grateful for my yoga practice, being mindful as I roll out my mat every damn day this month, and being kind to my body by doing lots of yummy stretching.
Cheering you on xxx
Thank you so much my lovely Xxx
I’m going to try join you on the mat 🙂
Love and hugs
Julia xxx
Wow that’s brilliant lovely Julia – don’t forget to write a few permission slips out too 🙂 Xxx